The trade connection between China and Panama has grown significantly in recent years, making shipping between the two countries a crucial aspect of international commerce. This article will explore in detail the various options for shipping, including sea and air freight, focusing on ports, costs, transit times, shipping routes, and the necessary import documents.
Sea Freight from China to Panama
Major Ports in Panama
Panama is strategically located and has several important ports for international trade. The Port of Balboa, located on the Pacific side, is one of the most significant. It is a major transshipment hub with state – of – the – art facilities for handling containers, bulk cargo, and other types of goods. It has deep – water berths and modern cranes, enabling efficient loading and unloading operations. The Port of Cristobal, on the Atlantic side, also plays a vital role. It offers connections to the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, facilitating trade with the Americas and Europe. These ports are equipped with customs facilities, warehousing, and transportation connections to the rest of Panama, making them ideal for receiving shipments from China.
Cost Of Shipping 20ft & 40ft Container From China To Panama
The cost of shipping a 20 – foot container from China to Panama can vary depending on multiple factors. On average, it can range from $2,000 to $4,000. For a 40 – foot container, the cost typically falls between $3,500 and $6,500. These costs are influenced by the origin port in China, the specific shipping line chosen, the time of year, and the type of goods being shipped. For example, if the goods are heavy or require special handling, such as refrigeration, the cost will be higher. Additionally, market conditions, such as fluctuations in fuel prices and container availability, can also impact the shipping cost.
How Much Does Container Shipping rates From China To Panama in 2024
In 2024, container shipping rates from China to Panama are subject to the same influencing factors as in previous years, but there may be some new trends. With the ongoing recovery of the global economy, there may be an increase in demand for shipping, which could potentially drive rates up. However, the expansion of shipping fleets and new infrastructure developments in both China and Panama might help to stabilize or even lower rates in some cases. Current estimates suggest that rates for 20 – foot containers could be around $2,200 – $4,200, and for 40 – foot containers, $3,700 – $6,700, but these are subject to change based on market dynamics.
| Container shipping service from China to Panama | Type of container | Ocean freight rates from China to Panama: |
|---|---|---|
| How much does it cost to ship a container from Shanghai China to Panama. | 20 foot container FCL 40 foot container FCL | average price from: $3150 20FT average price from: $4150 40FT |
| How much does it cost to ship a container from Shenzhen China to Panama. | 20 foot container FCL 40 foot container FCL | average price from: $3150 20FT average price from: $4850 40FT |
| How much does it cost to ship a container from Ningbo-Zhoushan China to Panama. | 20 foot container FCL 40 foot container FCL | average price from: $3150 20FT average price from: $4850 40FT |
| How much does it cost to ship a container from Hong Kong China to Panama. | 20 foot container FCL 40 foot container FCL | average price from: $3150 20FT average price from: $4850 40FT |
| How much does it cost to ship a container from Guangzhou China to Panama. | 20 foot container FCL 40 foot container FCL | average price from: $3150 20FT average price from: $4850 40FT |
| How much does it cost to ship a container from Qingdao China to Panama | 20 foot container FCL 40 foot container FCL | average price from: $3150 20FT average price from: $4850 40FT |
| How much does it cost to ship a container from Tianjin China to Panama | 20 foot container FCL 40 foot container FCL | average price from: $3150 20FT average price from: $4150 40FT |
| How much does it cost to ship a container from Dalian China to Panama | 20 foot container FCL 40 foot container FCL | average price from: $3150 20FT average price from: $4850 40FT |
| How much does it cost to ship a container from Xiamen China to Panama | 20 foot container FCL 40 foot container FCL | average price from: $3150 20FT average price from: $4850 40FT |
| How much does it cost to ship a container from Yingkou China to Panama | 20 foot container FCL 40 foot container FCL | average price from: $3150 20FT average price from: $4850 40FT |
How long does it take to get to Panama by sea from China
The transit time from China to Panama by sea usually ranges from 20 to 35 days. The duration depends on the shipping route chosen. If the vessel takes a more direct route with fewer stops, the transit time will be shorter. However, many shipping lines make stops at other ports along the way for loading and unloading additional cargo. Weather conditions also play a significant role. Storms, high winds, or rough seas can slow down the ship’s progress, adding to the transit time. Additionally, port congestion at either the origin or destination ports can cause delays.
| Continent of origin | Country of origin | Port of origin | Port of destination | Transit time (days) | 20DV FCL 40HQ FCL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asia | China | Port of Shanghai | Colon Container Terminal | 35 | $4150 |
| Asia | China | Port of Shenzhen | Manzanillo International Terminal | 40 | $4850 |
| Asia | China | Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan | Balboa Port | 38 | $4850 |
| Asia | China | Port of Hong Kong | PSA Panama Internacional Terminal | 39 | $4850 |
| Asia | China | Port of Guangzhou | Colon Container Terminal | 40 | $4850 |
| Asia | China | Port of Qingdao | Manzanillo International Terminal | 42 | $4850 |
| Asia | China | Port of Tianjin | Balboa Port | 42 | $5850 |
| Asia | China | Port of Dalian | PSA Panama Internacional Terminal | 27 | $3150 |
| Asia | China | Port of Xiamen | Colon Container Terminal | 25 | $4150 |
| Asia | China | Port of Yingkou | Manzanillo International Terminal | 25 | $4250 |
Top 10 best shipping routes to ship containers from China to Panama
- Shanghai – Balboa Route: This is one of the most popular routes as Shanghai is a major manufacturing and shipping hub in China. Ships on this route can take advantage of the well – developed infrastructure in Shanghai and the efficient handling facilities in Balboa.
- Shenzhen – Cristobal Route: Shenzhen’s proximity to many manufacturing centers in southern China makes it an ideal origin port. The route to Cristobal provides access to the Atlantic side of Panama and the Caribbean region.
- Ningbo – Balboa Route: Ningbo – Zhoushan Port is one of the largest ports in the world. The connection to Balboa offers a reliable and efficient shipping option with a good balance of cost and transit time.
- Qingdao – Cristobal Route: Qingdao has a large volume of exports, especially in industries like machinery and electronics. The route to Cristobal serves the Atlantic market well.
- Tianjin – Balboa Route: Tianjin’s strategic location in northern China and its well – equipped port facilities make this route attractive. It provides an alternative for shippers in the northern region to access Panama.
- Xiamen – Balboa Route: Xiamen has a growing export sector, and the route to Balboa offers a direct connection to the Pacific side of Panama, suitable for a variety of goods.
- Guangzhou – Cristobal Route: Guangzhou’s vibrant manufacturing industry produces a wide range of goods. The connection to Cristobal enables access to the Atlantic trade routes.
- Dalian – Balboa Route: Dalian’s port is well – known for handling various types of cargo. The route to Balboa is an important link for shipping to Panama from the northeastern part of China.
- Fuzhou – Cristobal Route: Fuzhou’s exports can efficiently reach the Atlantic market through this route, with Cristobal serving as a key entry point.
- Zhanjiang – Balboa Route: Zhanjiang’s port has unique advantages for certain types of cargo, and the route to Balboa provides a new option for shipping to Panama.
| Origin port in China | Destination port in Panama |
|---|---|
| Port of Shanghai | Colon Container Terminal |
| Port of Shenzhen | Manzanillo International Terminal |
| Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan | Balboa Port |
| Port of Hong Kong | PSA Panama Internacional Terminal |
| Port of Guangzhou | Colon Container Terminal |
| Port of Qingdao | Manzanillo International Terminal |
| Port of Tianjin | Balboa Port |
| Port of Dalian | PSA Panama Internacional Terminal |
| Port of Xiamen | Colon Container Terminal |
| Port of Yingkou | Manzanillo International Terminal |
Air Freight from China to Panama
Air freight offers a much faster alternative to sea freight. It is ideal for time – sensitive and high – value goods. The cost of air freight from China to Panama is generally higher than sea freight but provides significant advantages in terms of speed. The transit time for air freight is usually between 2 to 5 days, depending on the airline, the route, and any layovers. Airlines often use large cargo planes capable of carrying significant volumes of goods, although the space available may be limited compared to sea containers.
China main loading ports (POL) and Panama main ports of discharge (POD) for sea freight & air freight
In China, the main loading ports for both sea and air freight include those mentioned earlier, such as Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, and others. These ports have excellent connections to the manufacturing regions and are equipped with advanced handling and storage facilities. In Panama, for air freight, Tocumen International Airport is the main entry point. It has modern cargo handling facilities and customs clearance services to ensure the smooth transfer of goods. The combination of these ports and airports in both countries forms the backbone of the shipping and air freight network between China and Panama.
| SEAFREIGHT | AIRFREIGHT | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Main POL | Main POD | Main POL | Main POD |
| Shanghai | Manzanillo | Shenzhen (SZX) | Panama City (PTY) |
| Shenzhen | Balboa | Shanghai (PVG) | |
| Ningbo | Colon | Beijing (PEK) | |
| Qingdao | Rodman | Qingdao (TAO) | |
| Guangzhou | Panama City | Ningbo (NBG) | |
| Tianjin | Xiamen (XMN) | ||
| Dalian | Guangzhou (CAN) | ||
| Xiamen | Hong-Kong (HKG) | ||
| Hong-Kong | Zhengzhou (CGO) | ||
| Macao | Xi’An (XIY) |
Air Freight Cost From China To Panama
The cost of air freight from China to Panama varies depending on the weight and volume of the shipment, as well as the type of goods. On average, it can range from $5 to $15 per kilogram. Specialized or high – value goods may attract higher rates. The cost also depends on the airline carrier, the specific route flown, and any additional services required, such as temperature – controlled storage or expedited handling.
How to ship from China to Panama
- Choose the Right Shipping Mode: Based on the nature of the goods (e.g., size, weight, value, and urgency), decide between sea and air freight. If the shipment is large and not time – sensitive, sea freight may be more cost – effective. For urgent or high – value items, air freight is the better option.
- Select a Shipping Company or Freight Forwarder: Look for reliable shipping companies or freight forwarders with experience in the China – Panama trade route. They can handle the booking, documentation, and logistics involved in the shipping process.
- Prepare the Goods for Shipment: Ensure that the goods are properly packaged and labeled according to international shipping standards. This includes using appropriate packaging materials to protect the goods during transit and clearly marking the contents, origin, and destination.
- Arrange for Transportation to the Loading Port: Coordinate with local transportation providers to get the goods to the chosen loading port in China. This may involve trucking, rail, or other inland transportation methods.
- Track the Shipment: Use the tracking services provided by the shipping company or freight forwarder to monitor the progress of the shipment throughout the journey. This allows for timely updates and the ability to address any potential issues that may arise.
What documents are required to import in Panama from China
Imports from China must have the following documentation:
- Bill of lading manifest, which is used for the import, release, and tax purposes.
- Tax Identification Number in Panama
- Location of the tariff subheading, and commodity
- Registration as a importer in Panama
- Panama Customs Value Declaration
- Debt free in Panama
- Moving Inventory to Panama from China (simple copy)
- Have a trade or company patent in Panama that must indicate that you are dedicated to importing from China.
- Phytosanitary Export Certificate from China (simple copy)
- Demonstrate economic solvency in Panama
- Establish the terms of the Incoterms agreement for importation.
- Find a good customs broker in Panama
- Shipping company’s original bill of lading, sea waybill or airwaybill
- Packing list
- Commercial invoice
- Combined Certificate of Value and Origin from China(CCVO)
- Power of attorney that authorizes your customs broker to to do the import customs clearance for you in the Panama.
Conclusion
Shipping from China to Panama involves a complex set of considerations, from choosing the right shipping mode and route to understanding the costs and ensuring the proper documentation. By carefully evaluating these factors, businesses and individuals can ensure a smooth and efficient shipping process, contributing to the continued growth of trade between the two countries.
